Sabbath Queen

Directed by Sandi Simcha Dubowski, 2024
Documentary; 105 minutes

“Sabbath Queen examines what’s more righteous: loyalty to what you’ve always known or loyalty to your core values?” — Robyn Bahr, The Hollywood Reporter

Sabbath Queen, a feature documentary filmed over 21 years, follows Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie's epic journey as the dynastic heir of 38 generations of Orthodox rabbis, including a former Chief Rabbi of Israel. Torn between rejecting and embracing his traditional destiny, Lau-Levie becomes a drag-queen rebel, a queer bio-dad, and the founder of Lab/Shul—an everybody-friendly, God-optional, artist-driven, pop-up experimental congregation.

Beyond the Festival is a film series where we invite you to delve into a world of storytelling that transcends the annual Lone Star Film Festival, held each fall. Each month, this series features a selection of narrative and documentary films crafted by innovative and talented filmmakers, offering a glimpse into diverse perspectives and creative visions. Join us as we build anticipation for the upcoming festival—and beyond! Admission is free and open to the public.

The Lone Star Film Festival, ranked as a “Top 50 Film Festival” by MovieMaker Magazine, has grown into a premier destination for filmmakers, producers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts. The festival takes place in the Fort Worth Cultural District; screenings are held at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth and the Kimbell Art Museum, with other events at the Crescent Hotel, Bowie House, and Hotel Dryce.